The Benefits of Moderate Alcohol Consumption

Although some studies suggest that red wine offers additional health-protective effects due to its high
antioxidant content, the benefits listed below can be obtained by drinking any type of alcohol in
moderation.
• Dementia: A French study found that people who drank daily in moderation were less likely to
develop dementia than nondrinkers and those who only had one drink each week.
• Gallstones: Some studies have suggested that those who drink moderately cut their risk of
developing gallstones by about 50%.
• Heart health: Moderate drinking reduces the risk of both heart disease and death by heart attack;
studies have found variable risk reduction rates, ranging from 25% (various studies) to 40%
(Nurses’ Health Study-a longitudinal study of 85,709 nurses).
• Ischemic stroke: Moderate drinkers have a 70% reduced risk for ischemic strokes, a leading
cause of disability and death. However, heavy drinking increases the risk of suffering ischemic
strokes.
• Type 2 diabetes: There are some indications that moderate drinking may reduce the risk for type
2 diabetes; however, consuming large quantities of alcohol actually increases the risk for this
condition.
• Vascular benefits: Numerous studies suggest a 25% to 40% risk reduction for peripheral
vascular disease in moderate drinkers.
• General health: A national (U.S.) study found that moderate drinkers are more likely to get
enough sleep each night, exercise regularly and be at a healthy weight than nondrinkers and
heavy drinkers.

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